{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Hilltop Heritage Middle School","outOfStateSupporters":18.9,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":4237755,"projectId":9693081,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous contribution to our classroom. Because of your donation, my students had access to the markers, organizational tools, and learning supplies they needed to fully engage in their work every day. These materials helped create a vibrant, hands-on learning environment where students could think creatively, show their understanding, and take pride in their work.\r\n\r\nThe markers and supplies supported collaborative note-taking, math problem-solving, and AVID-aligned activities that require color-coding and visual organization—key strategies that help my students process complex concepts. Having these tools readily available not only boosted their confidence but also increased their ownership of learning.\r\n\r\nYour support made a real difference, and my students felt it. Thank you for investing in their success and for believing in the power of a well-","fullyFundedDate":1758804791664,"projectUrl":"project/building-stem-learners/9693081/","projectTitle":"Building STEM Learners","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Keller-Danilson","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-8_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/4237755"},{"teacherId":2563935,"projectId":9710577,"letterContent":"We feel so incredibly honored to have had this gift. As the t4eacher I can not thank you enough. It is making a huge difference in our ability to focus. Snacks, notebooks, a pencil sharpener is just what we needed to make us successful in our day to day. I am amazed at the kindness of someone can change the perception of the world. This is just what we needed in this setting. My students don't have a lot of access to the necessities. I am so very excited to provide for them. I am excited to tell them about this act of kindness. Thank you so much for thinking of us and my deserving students.","fullyFundedDate":1760549290394,"projectUrl":"project/basic-classroom-needs/9710577/","projectTitle":"Basic Classroom Needs","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. M.C.","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp2563935_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1490907682566","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/2563935"},{"teacherId":9717841,"projectId":9307148,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our Spreading Kindness Through Crafts project! When my students first saw the bracelet making kits, kindness cards, and art supplies, their excitement was contagious. They immediately began brainstorming ways to use these materials to brighten someone's day. Your generosity has empowered them to take the lead in a school wide kindness initiative, and it's been incredible to watch their creativity and compassion come to life.\r\nOne of the most memorable moments so far was during our first kindness workshop, where older students guided younger ones in making friendship bracelets and writing uplifting messages. The room was filled with laughter, focus, and genuine connection. These activities have not only helped students express themselves but have also taught valuable lessons in empathy, leadership, and community service. The kindness rocks they painted are now scattered throughout our school and local parks, spreading joy to anyone who finds them.\r\nNext, our students are planning to expand their efforts by creating kindness journals and posters to share with local businesses and community centers. They're learning that small acts of kindness can create a ripple effect, and they're proud to be part of something bigger than themselves. Thanks to your support, they're gaining tools to make a lasting impact and they're doing it with heart, creativity, and purpose.","fullyFundedDate":1748380014519,"projectUrl":"project/spreading-kindness-through-crafts/9307148/","projectTitle":"Spreading Kindness Through Crafts","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Andersen","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9717841_orig.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1741278530002","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9717841"},{"teacherId":9717841,"projectId":9207298,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support of my project, Tools for Student Success. Your contributions have made a meaningful impact on my students' emotional and social development and have elevated my teaching in powerful ways. As someone who loves to study with a stack of sticky notes, a highlighter in hand, and a quiet corner to reflect, I've spent time diving into these new resources to strengthen my ability to support students through grief, anxiety, trauma, and everyday stressors.\r\n\r\nWith the help of materials like the Grief Therapy Handbook, Coping Skills Workbook, and Art and Expressive Therapy Toolbox, my students have been engaging in activities that help them identify emotions, build resilience, and practice self-regulation. One of my favorite moments was watching a student use a calming strategy from the Meditation Cards during a stressful day, he later shared that it helped him feel more in control and ready to focus. These tools have created a safe space for students to express themselves, connect with peers, and build skills that will serve them far beyond the classroom. Your support has truly helped us lay the foundation for lifelong emotional wellness.","fullyFundedDate":1746698844826,"projectUrl":"project/tools-for-student-success/9207298/","projectTitle":"Tools for Student Success","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Andersen","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9717841_orig.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1741278530002","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9717841"},{"teacherId":4237755,"projectId":9161668,"letterContent":"My students and I have been using the new resources during our math workshop time, and they've completely transformed the way we approach problem-solving. One standout moment was when we used the manipulatives to model integer operations — students who normally struggle to visualize the math were suddenly engaged, collaborating, and even helping each other. It was exciting to see their confidence grow as they made sense of concepts that once felt out of reach.\r\n\r\nWhen the materials first arrived, the students' reactions were priceless — wide eyes, cheers, and instant curiosity about how everything worked. Now that they've had time to explore, our next step is applying these tools to our upcoming unit on rational numbers. We'll be using the materials for hands-on projects and peer teaching, helping students explain their thinking through visuals and models to deepen understanding.","fullyFundedDate":1742942210498,"projectUrl":"project/capturing-community-through-sensory-need/9161668/","projectTitle":"Capturing Community Through Sensory Needs","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Keller-Danilson","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-8_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/4237755"},{"teacherId":5425692,"projectId":9098676,"letterContent":"I am so incredibly grateful for your support. These Legos have been such a joy in our library and my students absolutely love them. Your financial support has made the smiles on their faces even bigger. I have a large group of students who come to the library during lunch and the highlight is being able to build Legos. This is all made possible because of the Donors Choose community.\r\nThis year I have seen students who struggle to get along with each other, and this project has allowed them to build next to each other without a single issue.\r\nOur library is the highlight for my students and thanks to you, I can provide a great environment.","fullyFundedDate":1742675956330,"projectUrl":"project/lego-blocks-in-the-library/9098676/","projectTitle":"LEGO Blocks in the Library","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Baughman","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5425692_orig.jpg?crop=558,558,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1597260076112","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/dawnbaughman"},{"teacherId":9788936,"projectId":9628173,"letterContent":"We've been using the art materials to bring science to life in creative ways! Most recently, students worked on illustrating models of how light interacts with different materials. They used the supplies to design colorful diagrams and posters that showed reflection, absorption, and transmission. The art materials allowed them to go beyond pencil and paper, adding vibrant details that helped them explain their thinking more clearly.\r\n\r\nThe excitement was instant—students were eager to dive in and start creating. Many said things like, \"These make our projects feel real!\" and \"Now we can actually show what we mean instead of just saying it.\" It was inspiring to see how the new supplies sparked their enthusiasm and made science feel even more engaging.\r\n\r\nOur next step is to use these materials for a phenomenon-based project where students create visual models of how a one-way mirror works. They'll be able to use the art supplies to show both the \"mirror side\" and the \"window side\" in their explanations. This creative process will help them connect their observations to scientific vocabulary as we continue building their understanding of light and matter.","fullyFundedDate":1756387035283,"projectUrl":"project/help-our-scientists-shine/9628173/","projectTitle":"Help Our Scientists Shine!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Ekstrom","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9788936_orig.png?crop=398,398,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1758991644150","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9788936"},{"teacherId":5425692,"projectId":9683718,"letterContent":"I want to extend my deepest gratitude for your generous contribution to our school library through the funding of ink cartridges for our printer. Your support has already begun to make a meaningful difference for our students, staff, and the broader school community, and I would like to share with you just how impactful your gift has been.\r\nIn today's classrooms, access to printed materials is still essential—even in a digital world. Students rely on having hard copies of reading passages, graphic organizers, reference sheets, and projects that they can hold in their hands, annotate, and revisit. The simple act of being able to print assignments, study guides, or creative work is something that can transform a student's learning experience. Because of your generosity, our library printer is once again fully functional, and students are able to use it daily to access resources that help them succeed.\r\nEqually important is the fact that your gift models generosity and community support for our students. They see that someone outside of their immediate circle cares enough to invest in their education. This not only provides practical benefits, but also instills a sense of belonging and encouragement. Students recognize that their learning matters—not just to their teachers and families, but also to kind supporters like you.","fullyFundedDate":1757777823355,"projectUrl":"project/printer-ink-for-the-heart-of-learning/9683718/","projectTitle":"Printer Ink for the Heart of Learning","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Baughman","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5425692_orig.jpg?crop=558,558,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1597260076112","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/dawnbaughman"},{"teacherId":9717841,"projectId":9144875,"letterContent":"I want to extend my deepest gratitude for your incredible support of my project, Empower Students: Mental Health & SEL Tools for Student Success. Thanks to your generosity, my students now have access to a wide range of tools that are helping them navigate life's challenges, build meaningful relationships, and grow in confidence and self-awareness.\r\n\r\nWith your help, our classroom has transformed into a safe and supportive space where students feel empowered to express themselves and explore their emotions. The Teen Mental Health Bundle, SEL journals, and therapeutic games have sparked thoughtful conversations and personal reflection. Students are using the anxiety survival guides and sensory tools to manage stress more effectively, and the calming corner complete with floor cushions and breathing ball toys has become a favorite spot for relaxation and mindfulness. The SEL Reflections Journal Kit and self-love and gratitude journals have encouraged students to think deeply about their strengths, goals, and emotions, fostering a sense of pride and resilience.\r\n\r\nReading and reflection have taken on new meaning in our classroom. Students are engaging with texts that teach emotional intelligence, coping strategies, and self-improvement. One student shared that the Better Me board game helped them understand how to set goals and stay motivated, while another found comfort in the Behind the Anger card game, which helped them articulate feelings they previously struggled to express. These resources are not just teaching skills, they're changing lives. Your support has made it possible for my students to thrive both academically and emotionally, and for that, I am truly grateful.\r\n\r\nThank you for believing in my students and in the power of social-emotional learning. Your kindness and generosity are making a lasting impact.","fullyFundedDate":1746787226451,"projectUrl":"project/empower-students-mental-health-sel-too/9144875/","projectTitle":"Empower Students Mental Health & SEL Tools for Student Success","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Andersen","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9717841_orig.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1741278530002","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9717841"},{"teacherId":4237755,"projectId":9171056,"letterContent":"My students are using the new resources every day to support their learning. In one project, they used markers to create colorful posters that explained their ideas, and the mechanical pencils helped them write neatly and with confidence. When they first saw the materials, they were so excited—they cheered and wanted to start using them right away. Several students said it felt special to have supplies that were just for them. These resources have made it easier for my students to focus, share their thinking, and feel proud of their work. The next step is for them to use the materials in group projects where they can plan, create, and present their learning. They will continue to reflect on their work and improve as they go. Your support has made this possible, and my students are truly thriving because of it.","fullyFundedDate":1743022529906,"projectUrl":"project/empowering-young-mathematicians-tools-f/9171056/","projectTitle":"Empowering Young Mathematicians: Tools for Success in a Co-Taught Classroom!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Keller-Danilson","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-8_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/4237755"},{"teacherId":5425692,"projectId":9019739,"letterContent":"I am so incredibly grateful for your financial support in bringing new books to my students. As soon as this collection of books were added to my library shelves, they disappeared in the hands of my students. Several students have returned multiple times to check out more books and have even brought more students to the library. \r\nDue to lack of funds, this is the only way to get books in the hands of my students. Thanks to your support, my students are beginning to love reading and I can provide more options for them to read.","fullyFundedDate":1737056930808,"projectUrl":"project/new-current-library-books/9019739/","projectTitle":"New Current Library Books","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Baughman","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5425692_orig.jpg?crop=558,558,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1597260076112","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/dawnbaughman"},{"teacherId":5425692,"projectId":9019004,"letterContent":"I am incredibly grateful for your financial support to bring non-fiction books to my library for my students. These books have been needed to expose my students to a wider array of information. Without your support, my students would not have been able to read a recipe book and then bake a meal for their family. \r\nSince my budget is continuing to be cut, your support has been critical in providing reading opportunities for my students. My library is beginning to have more choices for my students. Thank you on behalf of my students who are beginning to thrive with reading.","fullyFundedDate":1738351706257,"projectUrl":"project/nonfiction-library-books/9019004/","projectTitle":"Nonfiction Library Books","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Baughman","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5425692_orig.jpg?crop=558,558,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1597260076112","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/dawnbaughman"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_36352","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":447,"numTeachers":29,"percentFrplEligible":87,"percentAsian":3,"percentBlack":14,"percentWhite":40,"percentIndigenous":1,"percentLatinx":17,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"6 - 8","studentTeacherRatio":"15.4:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_MIDSIZE"},"inStateSupporters":81.1,"schoolId":36352,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Hilltop Heritage Middle School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Hilltop Heritage Middle School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/washington/tacoma-public-schools/jason-lee-middle-school/36352"}
Join the 402 supporters who believe in this school.
About this school
Hilltop Heritage Middle School is
an urban public school
in Tacoma, Washington that is part of Tacoma Public Schools.
It serves 447 students
in grades 6 - 8 with a student/teacher ratio of 15.4:1.
Its teachers have had 167 projects funded on DonorsChoose.
Boost support for our school's classrooms. Share this page with friends and family who want to make a difference. If you're a teacher, sign up to get started!
DonorsChoose is the most trusted classroom funding site for teachers.
As a teacher-founded nonprofit, we're trusted by thousands of teachers and supporters across the country. Each classroom request for funding was created by a classroom teacher and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
of students receive free or reduced price lunch
Data about students' economic need comes from the National Center for Education Statistics, via our partners at MDR Education. Learn more
Source: the National Center for Education Statistics
35%
of students are Black, Latino, Native
American, or Asian
Data about school demographics comes from the National Center for Education Statistics, via our partners at MDR Education. The numbers in this chart may not add up to 100% because of limitations in the available data.
Hilltop Heritage Middle School Support on DonorsChoose
Last updated Dec 4, 2025
DonorsChoose makes it easy for anyone to help a teacher in need, moving us closer to a nation where students
in every community have the tools and experiences they need for a great education.
Hilltop Heritage Middle School
$97,309
raised using DonorsChoose
167
projects
funded
25
teachers
funded
402
donors
25
projects
for
basic supplies
17
projects for
technology
46
projects for
books
17
projects
for
art supplies
Hilltop Heritage Middle School has received support from
326 individuals from Washington and
76 individuals out-of-state.